The ‘Dos’ And The ‘Do Not Dos’ Of Festival International

Festival International is one of, if not THE biggest FREE festivals in the world. We're truly lucky to have such a great festival here that celebrates so many cultures from across the globe. There's a reason why it's been able to be kept free, and that's where Festival is asking your help to keep it that way.

A few of the main ways you can support Festival is to buy a Festival pin, Festival T-shirt and buy food and drink from official Festival vendors. That money is funneled back into the organization to keep this amazing festival FREE. Support Festival, and Festival can keep supporting us.

Our media partners KATC also put together a list of "Dos And Do Not Dos" when it comes to Festival going. These could very much improve your Festival weekend!

1. Shoes - You'll be doing a lot of walking, and dancing, so ladies, no heels, you'll thank us for it later. Comfortable shoes can make the difference between a festival memory and a festival nightmare.

2. Stay Hydrated - If you are like most people, you've spent a lot of time indoors, between the cold winter and the rainy spring. Being in the sun can increase your need to drink water, so make sure you stay properly hydrated. Speaking of the sun, remember your sun screen, hats and other protection from the elements. Remember, umbrellas work to block the sun as well as rain if it happens to fall.

3. Bring Your Appetite - You will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the unique festival food over the next few days. Some suggestions include the pulled pork nachos from Teak's, the alligator balls from Alligator Shakes, the deep fried bananas foster bread pudding or any other item from the dozens of food vendors. Click here for a full list of vendors and their Festival menus.

"We do ask that you leave your ice chests and coolers at home," said April Courville, marketing director for the festival. "The biggest fundraiser and the biggest monetary supporter of festival is from drink and food sales."

4. Parking - Plenty of parking can be found at Cajun Field, and with less headaches getting in and out of the lot, you'll enjoy Festival even more. Take advantage of the free shuttle service from Cajun Field to downtown running every 15 minutes. The shuttle runs from 5:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Thursday, 4:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Friday, 10:30 a.m. - midnight Saturday and 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.

KATC has more great tips for Festival, so definitely go check them out over KATC.com